AM-11-46 Unconventional Crude Oil Selection and Compatibility

Description:

Crude oil production has changed from 20 years ago to now include unconventional feedstock produced from upgraders, diluted bitumen, fire flood, Steam and Gravity Assisted Drainage (SAGD), or other partially treated material. Changing crude quality has dramatically changed the landscape for evaluating, buying, and processing crudes. Crude selection now requires closer and ongoing qualification of quality and a refinery’s ability to process the contemplated mix. Today, potential crudes need to be screened for potential incompatibility with other crudes as some mixes can endanger the refinery, or badly foul equipment. This paper discusses different unconventional crudes, and the impact of crude blending on refinery energy consumption and equipment fouling. Case studies will be provided to demonstrate the methodology to determine crude compatibility and operability.